Kiosk gift card system and method

ABSTRACT

A kiosk gift card system and method for purchasing and redeeming gift cards is disclosed. The system/method includes a gift card distribution kiosk that provides a user with access to a multitude of different forms of gift cards that may be purchased and printed onto customizable gift card stock. The kiosk includes a kiosk processor interface, a gift card dispenser, a card reader, and gift card management server connected to a network. The gift card management server, through the kiosk processor interface, provides vendor options to users to select and pay via the card reader. The kiosk may be used to redeem unused user gift cards for a reduced value user selected gift card, reduced cash value, full value store card, rewards points, bank debit, and/or an electronic code (eCode) towards online user purchases.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS U.S. Utility Patent Applications

This application is a Continuation Patent Application (CPA) of andincorporates by reference United States Utility Patent Application forKIOSK GIFT CARD SYSTEM AND METHOD by inventor James Robert Curtis, filedelectronically with the USPTO on Jan. 14, 2015, with Ser. No.14/596,990.

U.S. Utility Patent Applications

This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §120 and incorporates byreference United States Utility Patent Application for KIOSK GIFT CARDSYSTEM AND METHOD by inventor James Robert Curtis, filed electronicallywith the USPTO on Jan. 14, 2015, with Ser. No. 14/596,990.

U.S. Utility Patent Applications

This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §120 and incorporates byreference United States Utility Patent Application for UNIVERSALMULTIMEDIA DISTRIBUTION, STORAGE, AND PLAYBACK SYSTEMS, AND METHODS byinventor James Robert Curtis, filed electronically with the USPTO on May16, 2011, with Ser. No. 13/108,837.

U.S. Utility Patent Applications

This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §120 and incorporates byreference United States Utility Patent Application for UNIVERSALMULTIMEDIA DISTRIBUTION, STORAGE, AND PLAYBACK SYSTEMS, AND METHODS byinventor James Robert Curtis, filed electronically with the USPTO onJul. 19, 2010, with Ser. No. 12/839,294.

U.S. Utility Patent Applications

This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §120 and incorporates byreference United States Utility Patent Application for UNIVERSALMULTIMEDIA DISTRIBUTION, STORAGE, AND PLAYBACK SYSTEMS, AND METHODS byinventor James Robert Curtis, filed electronically with the USPTO onJul. 17, 2009, with Ser. No. 12/505,342.

PARTIAL WAIVER OF COPYRIGHT

All of the material in this patent application is subject to copyrightprotection under the copyright laws of the United States and of othercountries. As of the first effective filing date of the presentapplication, this material is protected as unpublished material.

However, permission to copy this material is hereby granted to theextent that the copyright owner has no objection to the facsimilereproduction by anyone of the patent documentation or patent disclosure,as it appears in the United States Patent and Trademark Office patentfile or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not Applicable

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to gift cards and moreparticularly to purchasing vendor specific gift cards and exchangingunused gift cards at a kiosk.

PRIOR ART AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Prior Art Background

Gift cards can be perceived as a quintessential cop-out gift, peggingthe gift-giver as lazy or impersonal. While that may be true of thepreloaded value cards that big chain stores put out and that can befound in virtually every drugstore now, small businesses have theadvantage of developing gift card offerings that are good for more thanjust cash on a card. However, current gift card offerings do not providea convenient method to purchase the gift card except to physically visitthe store.

A fixed-money amount for a gift card limits the gift giver in what theyare able to spend. Typically people have long holiday gifts lists and abudget for how much they want to spend on each person, but they will bemore likely to spend $150 if they know, for example, that they arebuying someone a deluxe spa package. However, most gift cards availablein stores have a logo or print with the face value of the card.Therefore, there is a need for a customizable gift card available tocustomers at a convenient location.

Often times, the people who are buying gift cards are not the regularcustomers. So if they do not know anything about the business, then theyare not going to know how much to spend. Providing customers with theopportunity to purchase different types of packages helps them feel likethey are providing a more personalized gift. Therefore, there is a needfor providing customizable and personalized gift card options toconsumers.

Convenience plays a big role in the purchasing of gift cards during theholidays. While not everyone buys their gifts online, most people willat some point be browsing the web for gift ideas during these finalweeks, and the more they come across a particular website whileshopping, the better. Anyone can easily go to the big box stores for thestandard gift offerings, but most people would rather give a gift thatis local to the recipient and shows that they put some thought into thepurchase.

Customers enjoy the sheer convenience of sending the certificate in anemail with a personalized message, or if they are seeing the person theycan print out the certificate and hand it to them. Either way, there isan element of personalization to it because it is possible to write aselected message and choose the background for the certificate.Therefore, there is a need for a personalizing gift cards at a localconvenience or retail store kiosk.

Some recipients of gift cards do not necessarily use the cards due toseveral reasons. Currently, there are no systems to redeem unused giftcards for cash, reduced value gift cards, rewards points, automatic bankdebit, or an eCode for applying to online purchases.

Deficiencies in the Prior Art

The prior art as detailed above suffers from the following deficiencies:

-   -   Prior art systems do not provide for a convenient method to        purchase the gift card except to physically visit the store.    -   Prior art systems do not provide for customizable gift cards        available to customers at a convenient location.    -   Prior art systems do not provide for providing personalized gift        card options to consumers.    -   Prior art systems do not provide for exchanging unused gift        cards for a reduced cash offer.    -   Prior art systems do not provide for exchanging unused gift        cards for a reduced value gift card offer for a preferred gift        card of choice.    -   Prior art systems do not provide for redeeming unused gift cards        for a full value store credit.    -   Prior art systems do not provide for redeeming unused gift cards        for rewards points.    -   Prior art systems do not provide for redeeming unused gift cards        for a promotional code that could be used for online purchases.    -   Prior art systems do not provide for redeeming unused gift cards        for a promotional code that could be used at a different        location for printing customizable gift cards.

While some of the prior art may teach some solutions to several of theseproblems, the core issue of purchasing gift cards at a kiosk has notbeen addressed by prior art.

Objectives of the Invention

Accordingly, the objectives of the present invention are (among others)to circumvent the deficiencies in the prior art and affect the followingobjectives:

-   -   Provide for a convenient method to purchase the gift card expect        to physically visit the store.    -   Provide for customizable gift cards available to customers at a        convenient location.    -   Provide for providing personalized gift card options to        consumers.    -   Provide for exchanging unused gift cards for a reduced cash        offer.    -   Provide for exchanging unused gift cards for a reduced value        gift card offer for a preferred gift card of choice.    -   Provide for redeeming unused gift cards for a full value store        credit.    -   Provide for redeeming unused gift cards for rewards points.    -   Provide for redeeming unused gift cards for a promotional code        that could be used for online purchases.    -   Provide for redeeming unused gift cards for a promotional code        that could be used at a different location for printing        customizable gift cards.

While these objectives should not be understood to limit the teachingsof the present invention, in general these objectives are achieved inpart or in whole by the disclosed invention that is discussed in thefollowing sections. One skilled in the art will no doubt be able toselect aspects of the present invention as disclosed to affect anycombination of the objectives described above.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION System Overview

The present invention in various embodiments addresses one or more ofthe above objectives in the following manner. The present inventionprovides a kiosk gift card system for purchasing gift cards at a kiosk.The system includes a gift card distribution kiosk located at a retailestablishment that provides a user with access to a multitude ofdifferent forms of gift cards that may be purchased and printed onto acustomizable card with a personalized message. The kiosk includes akiosk processor interface, a gift card dispenser, a card reader, andgift card management server connected to a network. The gift cardmanagement server, through the kiosk processor interface, providesvendor options to users to select and pay via the card reader. Inanother embodiment, the kiosk is used to redeem unused user gift cardsfor a reduced value user selected gift card, reduced cash value, fullvalue store card, rewards points, bank debit, and/or electronic codeuser towards online purchases.

Method Overview

The present invention system may be utilized in the context of anoverall kiosk gift card purchase method, wherein the kiosk gift cardsystem as described previously is controlled by a method having thefollowing steps:

-   -   (1) clicking on the kiosk processor interface;    -   (2) browsing through a list of vendors;    -   (3) selecting a vendor to purchase a gift card from the vendor;    -   (4) requesting a monetary amount to apply to the gift card;    -   (5) paying the monetary amount;    -   (6) printing and dispensing the gift card; and    -   (7) collecting the gift card.

Integration of this and other preferred exemplary embodiment methods inconjunction with a variety of preferred exemplary embodiment systemsdescribed herein in anticipation by the overall scope of the presentinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the advantages provided by the invention,reference should be made to the following detailed description togetherwith the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates an overall kiosk gift card system according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a detailed kiosk gift card system according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a detailed kiosk processor interface system accordingto a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a detailed kiosk processor interface displayaccording to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift cardpurchase according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift cardexchange/redeeming according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift cardto gift card exchange option according to a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift cardto cash exchange method option according to a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift cardto bank debit exchange method option according to a preferred embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift cardto store credit exchange method option according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift cardto rewards points exchange method option according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift cardto eCode exchange method option according to a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a gift card value check system according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a flowchart describing a gift card value checkmethod according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary remote kiosk gift card presentationsystem according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 16 illustrates a flowchart describing a remote kiosk gift cardpresentation method according to a preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many differentforms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described indetailed preferred embodiment of the invention with the understandingthat the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification ofthe principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broadaspect of the invention to the embodiment illustrated.

The numerous innovative teachings of the present application will bedescribed with particular reference to the presently preferredembodiment, wherein these innovative teachings are advantageouslyapplied to the particular problems of a gift card system and method.However, it should be understood that this embodiment is only oneexample of the many advantageous uses of the innovative teachingsherein. In general, statements made in the specification of the presentapplication do not necessarily limit any of the various claimedinventions. Moreover, some statements may apply to some inventivefeatures but not to others.

Kiosk Gift Card System (0100)

The present invention may be seen in more detail as generallyillustrated in FIG. 1 (0100), wherein a kiosk gift card system comprisesa kiosk (0104) with a gift card dispenser (0111), a live interfaceportal (LIP) (0106), a kiosk processor interface (0105) thatcommunicates with a gift card management server (0102). The kioskprocessor interface (0105) may be a touch user interface that is basedupon the sense of touch or a graphical user interface (GUI) that maynavigated with a pointing device such as a mouse. A user (0101) may usethe touch interface to interact and navigate the kiosk (0104). Accordingto a preferred exemplary embodiment, a user may purchase a gift card atkiosk with the kiosk processor interface. The gift card may becustomized to add a fixed value and also personalized to add a personalmessage on the card. A user may request a gift card for a specificvendor, for example STARBUCKS®, and add a fixed amount, for example $90.Furthermore, the user may add a personalized message such as “HappyHolidays” on the card. Additionally, the user may personalize the font,design, color, size, and position of the personalized message. The kioskprocessor interface (KPI) (0105) receives a purchase request from theuser (0101) and forwards the request to a gift card management server(GMS) (0102). The GMS (0102) may then connect with the vendor ofinterest and receive a confirmation to print the gift card. The GMS(0102) may then instruct a printer to print the gift card and dispensethe gift card via the gift card dispenser (0111) after an amount hasbeen paid with a card reader and a payment module. After a transactionis complete, the user may request real time support through a liveinterface portal (0106) such as a camera or an online chat on the KPI(0105). The user may also seek live support during the gift cardtransaction with the live interface portal (0106). The LIP (0106) mayfurther communicate with a customer support center through (0103) anetwork and gift card management server (0102).

Kiosk Gift Card System (0200)

The present invention may be seen in more detail as generallyillustrated in FIG. 2 (0200), wherein a user/consumer (0201) interactswith a kiosk gift card system located in a retail establishment. Forexample the kiosk may be located in retail establishments such asWALMART®, HOME DEPOT®, in a mall, in a public event place such a sportsstadium, in an office building, etc. The system comprises a kiosk (0210)with a kiosk processor interface (KPI) (0211) that communicates with agift card management server (0230). The GMS (0230) may be physicallyconnected directly to the kiosk (0210). The GMS (0230) may be remotelylocated and be accessible via the network (0240). An administrator mayremotely monitor GMS (0230) via the network (0240). The network may bewired and may use protocols such as Ethernet. The network may bewireless and may use protocols such as 4G, LTE, and/or Bluetooth.

The KPI (0211) is configured for enabling users to interact with GMS(0230). The GMS (0230) may further comprise a microprocessor executinginstructions read from a computer-readable medium (0231) and a graphicaluser interface (GUI) with a pointing device. An administrator may open aGUI and select vendor database (0232) for updating records. A moredetailed view of the GUI may be seen in FIG. 4 (0400).

The kiosk further comprises a Kiosk Card Stacker (0213) that maintainsan inventory of blank cards equipped with or without a near fieldcommunication (NFC) device. The NFC device in a card may be enabled tocommunicate wirelessly with a NFC reader installed in a mobile computingdevice such as a smart phone or other NFC reader equipped devices. Theblank cards may be configured in a variety of different sizes so as toenable users to choose a particular size. A Kiosk card printer (0214)may be connected physically to the Kiosk Card Stacker (0213). The KioskCard Stacker (0213) may automatically feed a blank card to the printerwhen it receives a print request. The print request may includeinformation pertaining to the card size, personalized message, color,logo, value, and/or NFC chip. The kiosk processor interface (KPI) (0211)may receive a purchase/exchange request from a user (0201) whichsubsequently forwards the request to a gift card management server (GMS)(0230). The GMS (230) may then search the vendor database (0232) tocheck if the vendor exists on the database. If so, the GMS (0230) mayconnect with the vendor of interest via vendor management server (VMS)(0250) via the network (0240) and receive a confirmation to print thegift card. The user may pay with a credit card or debit card for therequested amount with a card reader (0217). The user may also choose topay in cash. The card reader may communicate via network (0240) with apayment server (0260) that authenticates the payment and sends aconfirmation for the payment. The GMS (0230) may then instruct a printer(0214) to print the gift card and dispense the gift card via the giftcard dispenser (0215). According to an exemplary embodiment, gift cardmanufacturing on demand (MOD) with a gift card kiosk enables a consumerto print a gift card on an as-needed basis.

The kiosk may also comprise a Near Field Communication (NFC) device(0212). The communication (NFC) is a standards-based short-rangewireless connectivity technology that makes life easier and moreconvenient for consumers by making it simpler to make transactions,exchange digital content, and connect electronic devices with a touch.The user may use a mobile computing device (0202) equipped with a NFCreader to establish a NFC connection with the kiosk (0210). According toa preferred exemplary embodiment, the user (0201) may use the NFC device(0202) to pay for a gift card. The user may also receive a confirmationto the NFC device (0202).

The kiosk (0210) may also be communicating via network (0240) with anadvertisement server ADS (0270) that is configured to displayadvertisements on the kiosk processor interface (0211). According to apreferred exemplary embodiment, the kiosk is enabled to targetadvertisements to the user through the advertising server (0270).

The kiosk (0210) may also use a card collector (0216) to gather unusedgift cards that may be redeemed or exchanged for like kind gift cards orcash as described below in one of several methods. The unused cards maybe recycled or reused for customized gift cards.

According to preferred exemplary embodiment, the kiosk in the retailestablishment may be integrated into the retail network server (0280) toprovide retailer specific Value Offers and discounts. For example, ifthe kiosk is located in WALMART®, advertisements and offers related toWALMART® may be displayed on the KPI (0211). Value Offers may also bepresented to the user on a mobile computing device (MCD) (0202). Theconsumer may use the Value Offers at check out with the MCD (0202) orprint a paper copy at the kiosk.

Vendor Database (0232)

As illustrated below in Table 1.0, the vendor database (VBD) (0232) mayfurther comprise vendor related information such as “Vendor Name”,“Vendor ID”, “Credit Limit”, “Address” and “Gift Card Serial Number”.The VDB (0232) may communicate with GMS (0230) or through a wired orwireless network. When a consumer requests a gift card, the KPI (0211)may process and forward the request to the GMS (0230). The GMS (0230)may determine the vendor from request and issue a gift card with aserial number from the VDB (0232). If the requested gift card amountexceeds the Credit Limit for the vendor, the GMS (0230) may forward therequest to a vendor management server (VMS) (0250). The VMS (0250) mayfurther communicate with the user requested vendor using the Address,for authorization upon which a customized gift card may be printed anddispensed to the requesting consumer.

TABLE 1.0 Vendor Vendor Credit Gift Card Name ID Limit Address SerialNo. Vendor 1 58769 $1,000 www.vendor1.com 5687587- 576768 Vendor 2 69789$500 www.vendor2.com 6687587- 676769 Vendor 3 96987 $100 www.vendor3.com7687587- 776770 Vendor 4 56876 $500 www.vendor4.com 8687587- 876771Vendor 5 64647 $1,000 www.vendor5.com 9687587- 976772Consumer Database (0233)

As illustrated below in Table 2.0, the consumer database (CBD) (0233)may further comprise consumer related information such as “ConsumerName”, “Consumer ID”, “Credit Check”, “Consumer Contact information”,and “Consumer History”. A single entry for example may containinformation about a consumer 1 with a consumer ID 123-56-789 who hasbeen credit checked. The CDB (0233) may also maintain consumer historyand past purchases. For example, Consumer 1 may have purchased a Vendor1 and Vendor 3 gift card. The consumer history may be analyzed furtherfor presenting specific advertisements to consumers with an advertisingserver ADS (0270). It should be appreciated by anyone skilled in the artthat the database may be maintained and stored in standard SQL or anyindustry DBMS standard.

TABLE 2.0 Consumer Customer Credit Customer Name ID Check ContactHistory Consumer 1 123-56-789 Yes 123-334-3456 Vendor 1, Vendor 3Consumer 2 123-56-790 Yes 123-354-3457 Vendor 3, Vendor 4 Consumer 3123-56-791 No 123-364-3458 Vendor 2, Vendor 5 Consumer 4 123-56-792 Yes123-374-3459 Vendor 4, Vendor 6 Customer 5 123-56-793 No 123-384-3460Vendor 6, Vendor 7Consumer Personalization

According to a preferred exemplary embodiment, consumer personalizationmay be used to provide specific customer history with real timeevaluation and supported purchases. For example, from the aforementionedTable 2.0, Consumer 2 may be evaluated in real time based on pastpurchase history such as Vendor 3 and Vendor 4. The Consumer 3 may bepresented with an advertisement for Vendor 3 or Vendor 4 afteridentifying the consumer with the CDB (0233) and consumer ID.

Consumer History Macro (Total) and Micro (by Card)

According to a preferred exemplary embodiment, the CDB (0233) may alsoprovide Macro reports for total customer specific history in aparticular category. For example a consumer's past history from the CDB(0233) may indicate purchases in a drug store and the specificinformation may be used to present drug store related advertisements ordrug store related gift cards.

Similarly, the CDB (0233) may also provide Micro reports for specificcustomer history with a genre or historical favorites. For example, aconsumer's past history or historical favorites may be analyzed anddetermined that a consumer is interested in sports. A history of alltransactions on a particular card may also be analyzed by the system.

Consumer Card Balances

According to a preferred exemplary embodiment, a consumer may use theKPI (0211) and obtain real time balance on a gift card directly or witha NFC device (0202). A consumer (0201) may insert a gift card into cardreader (0217) in the kiosk (0200). The card reader (0202) may thendetermine the vendor ID based on the gift card information. The GMS(0230) may then query the vendor database (0232) with the Vendor ID andreceive a vendor address which may be used to login into a vendormanagement server (VMS) (0250). The VMS (0250) may then respond to theGMS (0230) with a gift card balance that may be presented to theconsumer (0201) on the interface (0211). The gift card balance may alsobe wirelessly transmitted to the consumer's mobile device (0202) withthe NFC reader (0212).

Consumer Direct Marketing

According to a preferred exemplary embodiment, the retailer system/kioskinterface provides customer specific advertising micro marketingmaterial with the Advertising server (ADS) (0270). For example, when aconsumer interfaces with the KPI (0211), the consumer may be identifiedwith a consumer ID and the CDB (0233). The GMS (0230) may use theconsumer information forward it to an advertisement server ADS (0270)that is configured to serve advertisements. The ADS (0270) may serveadvertisements directly to the consumer (0201) based on the consumer'spast purchase history while the customer is waiting for a transaction.Similarly, micro marketed promotions and discounts based on historicalpurchases or viewing may also be provided to a consumer.

Consumer Fraud Alerts

According to a preferred exemplary embodiment, the system/kiosk mayprovide “push” communication in the event of any issues with accountusage or unauthorized access. When a user interfaces with KPI (0211),the consumer may be identified and if there is a history of misusage inthe consumer's history, an alert may be communicated to the retailestablishment. The alert may be transmitted with the network (0240) oran alarm may be sounded to notify concerned officials.

Consumer Customer Services

According to a preferred exemplary embodiment, the kiosk may provideconnectivity with a “live” communication for post purchase, post issuefollow up with a live interface portal (LIP) (0218). The LIP (0218) maybe an audio device such as a microphone or a video device such as acamera. The LIP (0218) may enable a consumer (0201) to communicate witha live customer support (0290) via GMS (0230) and network (0240).Alternately, a consumer may perform an online chat on the KPI (0211)with a touch screen or typing with a keyboard. The consumer may alsorequest support before a transaction, during a transaction, or after atransaction.

Kiosk Processor Interface (0300)-(0400)

As generally illustrated in FIG. 3 (0300) and FIG. 4 (0400), anexemplary kiosk processor interface (0301) comprises a gift card menu(0310) for purchasing/exchanging, a gift card exchange/redeeming menu(0320), a payment option menu (0330), an administrator menu (0340), anda live interface portal (0350). A user may interface with a kiosk viathe KPI (0301) and navigate through the menus with a touch interface ora graphical interface. The user may select an exchange menu (0320) toexchange unused gift cards that may or may not have a balance on them.The user may exchange for another gift card from a different vendor,cash, bank debit, store credit, and/or an eCode for use with onlinepurchases (0321). An administrator may login to the KPI (0301) via theadmin menu (0340) and perform administrator actions such as setup,update, reboot, and/or install new features (0341). The user may beprovided with payment options such as credit card, debit card, and/orcash (0331). The user may select a gift card menu (0310) to accessoptions such as gift card purchase, gift card exchange, gift card redeemor gift card balance check (0311). The user may also request supportfrom customer support (0290) through a live interface portal. The usermay choose one of the chat options (0351) from online chat, video chat,and voice chat.

Kiosk Gift Card Purchase Method (0500)

As generally seen in the flow chart of FIG. 5 (0500), a preferredexemplary Kiosk Gift Card Purchase method may be generally described interms of the following steps:

-   -   (1) clicking on the kiosk processor interface (0501);        -   A user may click through or touch the KPI to navigate the            different options of the interface as aforementioned in FIG.            3 (0300) and FIG. 4 (0400).    -   (2) browsing through a list of vendors (0502);        -   The user may browse through a list of vendors that are            stored and maintained in a vendor database that is            accessible by a gift card management server via a network.            An administrator may add/delete/update vendors in the vendor            database.    -   (3) selecting a vendor to purchase a gift card from the vendor        (0503);        -   The user may select a vendor from the list of vendors.    -   (4) requesting a monetary amount to apply to the gift card        (0504);        -   The user may request an amount to be applied to the gift            card. The request may then be forwarded to GMS for            processing. The GMS may connect with the vendor of interest            to vendor management server (VMS) via network and receive a            confirmation to print the gift card.    -   (5) paying the monetary amount (0505);        -   The user may pay with a credit card or debit card for the            requested amount with a card reader. The user may also            choose to pay in cash. The card reader may communicate via            network with a payment server that authenticates the payment            and sends a confirmation for the payment.    -   (6) printing and dispensing the gift card (0506); and        -   The GMS may then instruct a gift card printer to print the            gift card with a personalized message and dispense the gift            card via a gift card dispenser.    -   (7) collecting the gift card (0507).        -   The user may then collect the gift card from the gift card            dispenser.

Kiosk Gift Card Exchange Method (0600)

As generally seen in the flow chart of FIG. 6 (0600), a preferredexemplary Kiosk Gift Card Exchange method may be generally described interms of the following steps:

-   -   (1) clicking on the kiosk processor interface (0601);        -   A user may click through or touch the KPI to navigate the            different options of the interface as aforementioned in FIG.            3 (0300) and FIG. 4 (0400).    -   (2) scanning user gift cards with a card reader (0602);        -   The user may user a card reader to scan user gift cards that            are unused or have a balance remaining on them. A unique            identification number (UID) associated with each gift card            may be saved in a local database maintained by the GMS. The            Kiosk card collector may collect the cards and unused cards            may be recycled or reused for future customized gift cards.    -   (3) calculating a consolidated value for remaining balance of        the user gift cards (0603);        -   The gift card management server may add the remaining            balances on all the user gift cards and determine a            consolidated value. The GMS may communicate with plural            vendors via the vendor management server with the UID's to            determine remaining balance on each cards. For example, gift            card 1 may have an unused value of $34, gift card 1 may have            an unused value of $46 and gift card 1 may have an unused            value of $100. The GMS will determine a consolidated value            of $180 for the unused gift cards.    -   (4) providing redeeming options for exchanging the user gift        cards to the users (0604).        -   The KPI may provide various exchange options for the            consolidated value such as another gift card from a            different vendor, cash, bank debit, store credit, and/or an            eCode for use with online purchases.

Kiosk Gift Card Gift Card Exchange Method (0700)

As generally seen in the flow chart of FIG. 7 (0700), a preferredexemplary Kiosk Gift Card to Gift Card Exchange method may be generallydescribed in terms of the following steps:

-   -   (1) choosing gift card option from a redeeming menu on the kiosk        processor interface (0701);    -   (2) receiving plural vendor options and a discounted offer in        exchange for the consolidated value (0702);        -   The GMS may provide the user with a list of available            vendors to choose from along with a discounted offer value            in exchange for the consolidated value. For example, the GMS            may offer a $100 worth HOME DEPOT® Card for a consolidated            value of $180.    -   (3) selecting a vendor from the options for a new vendor gift        card (0703);        -   If the user accepts the offer value, the user may select a            vendor from the list of vendors.    -   (4) requesting a monetary amount to apply to the vendor gift        card (0704);        -   The user may request a monetary value to apply to the            selected vendor gift card. For example, the user may request            to apply $110 to the gift card.    -   (5) paying any additional monetary amount above the offer value        (0705);        -   The user may pay the $10 difference from the step above to            apply to the gift card.    -   (6) printing and dispensing the gift card from a blank card        applying the monetary amount (0706); and    -   (7) collecting the gift card (0707).

Kiosk Gift Card Cash Exchange Method (0800)

As generally seen in the flow chart of FIG. 8 (0800), a preferredexemplary Kiosk Gift Card to Cash Exchange method may be generallydescribed in terms of the following steps:

-   -   (1) choosing cash option from a redeeming menu on the kiosk        processor interface (0801);    -   (2) receiving a discounted offer in exchange for the        consolidated value (0802);    -   (3) accepting the offer value, if not, proceeding to step (6)        (0803);    -   (4) dispensing cash for the offer value (0804);    -   (5) collecting cash from the dispenser (0805); and    -   (6) returning the user gift cards (0806).

Kiosk Gift Card Bank Debit Exchange Method (0900)

As generally seen in the flowchart of FIG. 9 (0900), a preferredexemplary Kiosk Gift Card to Bank Debit Exchange method may be generallydescribed in terms of the following steps:

-   -   (1) choosing a bank debit option from a redeeming menu on the        kiosk processor interface (0901);    -   (2) receiving a discounted offer for the consolidated value        (0902);    -   (3) determining if the offer value is to be accepted, and if        not, proceeding to step (6) (0903);    -   (4) providing bank account information (0904);    -   (5) transferring funds for the offer value to the bank        information (0905); and    -   (6) returning the user gift cards (0906).

Kiosk Gift Card Store Credit Exchange Method (1000)

As generally seen in the flow chart of FIG. 10 (1000), a preferredexemplary Kiosk Gift Card to Store Credit Exchange method may begenerally described in terms of the following steps:

-   -   (1) choosing store credit option from a redeeming menu on the        kiosk processor interface (1001);    -   (2) receiving a full value offer in exchange for the        consolidated value (1002);    -   (3) paying any additional monetary amount above the offer value        (1003);    -   (4) printing and dispensing the store card for the retail        establishment from a blank card applying the monetary amount        (1004); and    -   (5) collecting the store card (1005).

Kiosk Gift Card Rewards Points Exchange Method (1100)

As generally seen in the flow chart of FIG. 11 (1100), a preferredexemplary Kiosk Gift Card to Rewards Points Exchange method may begenerally described in terms of the following steps:

-   -   (1) choosing rewards points option from a redeeming menu on the        kiosk processor interface (1101);    -   (2) receiving rewards points in exchange for the consolidated        value (1102);    -   (3) determining if the reward points are to be accepted, and if        not, proceeding to step (6) (1103);    -   (4) providing rewards account information (1104);    -   (5) transferring the rewards points to the rewards account        (1105); and    -   (6) returning the user gift cards (1106).

Kiosk Gift Card eCode Exchange Method (1200)

As generally seen in the flow chart of FIG. 12 (1200), a preferredexemplary Kiosk Gift Card to eCode Exchange method may be generallydescribed in terms of the following steps:

-   -   (1) choosing eCode option from a redeeming menu on the kiosk        processor interface (1201);    -   (2) receiving a discounted offer in exchange for the        consolidated value (1202);    -   (3) determining if the eCode offer value is to be accepted, and        if not, proceeding to step (6) (1203);    -   (4) providing means for transmitting a eCode to the user (1204);    -   (5) transmitting the eCode to the user (1205); and    -   (6) returning the user gift cards (1206).

Gift Card Value Check System (1300)

The present invention may be seen in more detail as generallyillustrated in FIG. 13 (1300), wherein a user/consumer (1301) with a NFCreader equipped mobile computing device (1303) checks value of a giftcard (1305). The gift card (1305) may also be embedded with a NFCcompatible chip (1306) that communicates wirelessly with the device(1303). The consumer (1301) may query the balance of a gift card (1305)with an application on the device (1303). The mobile device (1303) maythen query a vendor management server (VMS) (1350) via a network (1304).The VMS (1350) may be remotely located that may be accessible via thenetwork (1304). An administrator may remotely monitor VMS (1350) via thenetwork (1304). The network may be wired and may use protocols such asEthernet. The network may be wireless and may use protocols such as 4G,LTE, and/or Bluetooth. When queried by the device (1303) with a giftcard identification number (Gift card ID), the VMS (1350) may respondwith a balance on the gift card. The mobile device (1303) may thendisplay the gift card balance to the consumer (1301).

Gift Card Value Check Method (1400)

As generally illustrated in FIG. 14 (1400), the present invention systemmay be utilized in the context of an overall gift card balance/valuecheck method, wherein the gift card value check system as describedpreviously in FIG. 13 (1300) is controlled by a method having thefollowing steps:

-   -   (1) reading gift card identification (ID) number from a gift        card with a NFC reader in a mobile computing device (1401);    -   (2) transmitting the gift card ID to a vendor management server        (1402);    -   (3) receiving gift card balance from the vendor management        server (1403); and    -   (4) displaying the gift card balance on the mobile computing        device (1404).

Remote Kiosk Gift Card Presentation System (1500)

The present invention may be seen in more detail as generallyillustrated in FIG. 15 (1500), wherein a kiosk gift card systemcomprises a kiosk (1504) with a gift card dispenser, a live interfaceportal (LIP), and a kiosk processor interface that communicates with agift card management server (1502). The kiosk processor interface may bea touch user interface that is based upon the sense of touch or agraphical user interface (GUI) that may navigated with a pointing devicesuch as a mouse. A user (1501) may use the touch interface to interactand navigate the kiosk (1504). The kiosk (1504) may communicate withanother remote kiosk (1514) located at a different retail establishment.The retail establishment may be located in the same place or in adifferent location or place. According to a preferred exemplaryembodiment, a user may purchase a gift card at a kiosk with the kioskprocessor interface and print the gift card at a remote kiosk that couldbe collected at the remote retail establishment. The kiosk (1504) maycommunicate with kiosk (1514) via a network (1503) through gift cardmanagement system (1502) and gift card management system (1512).According to yet another preferred exemplary embodiment, a user mayredeem unused gift cards at a kiosk with the kiosk processor interface,accept an offered monetary value from the kiosk, and print the gift cardat a remote kiosk that could be collected at the remote retailestablishment. According to a further preferred exemplary embodiment, auser (1501) may purchase a gift card at a kiosk (1504) with the kioskprocessor interface, receive an electronic code (eCode) from the kiosk(1504), and transmit the eCode to another user (1511) located at anotherlocation. The user (1511) may then print a customized gift card at aremote kiosk (1514). The eCode may be scrambled, encrypted, and/orencoded for security purposes.

Remote Kiosk Gift Card Presentation Method (1600)

As generally illustrated in FIG. 16 (1600), the present invention systemmay be utilized in the context of an overall remote kiosk gift cardpresentation method, wherein the remote kiosk gift card presentationsystem as described previously in FIG. 15 (1500) is controlled by amethod having the following steps:

-   -   (1) paying cash or redeeming unused gift cards (gift cards with        a balance) choosing eCode option from a redemption menu on a        kiosk processor interface (1601);    -   (2) receiving a discounted cash offer value in exchange for the        consolidated value of the unused gift cards (1602);    -   (3) determining if the offer value is to be accepted, and if        not, proceeding to step (10) (1603);    -   (4) selecting between an eCode or print option, and proceeding        to step (5) if an eCode option is selected and step (8) if a        print option is selected (1604)    -   (5) providing means for transmitting a eCode to the user (1605);    -   (6) transmitting the eCode to a remote user (1606);    -   (7) purchasing gift cards with the eCode at a second gift card        kiosk located in a second location and proceeding to step (11)        (1607);    -   (8) printing a gift card at a remote kiosk in a different        (second) location in a retail establishment (1608);    -   (9) collecting the printed gift card at the remote kiosk by a        second user and proceeding to step (11) (1609);    -   (10) returning the user gift cards (1610);    -   (11) terminating the remote kiosk gift card presentation method        (1611).

System Summary

The present invention system anticipates a wide variety of variations inthe basic theme of kiosk gift card system, but can be generalized as akiosk gift card system in a retail establishment comprising:

-   -   (a) kiosk processor interface;    -   (b) gift card management server;    -   (c) card reader; and    -   (d) gift card dispenser;    -   wherein    -   the kiosk processor interface is configured to enable users to        interact with the gift card management server;    -   the gift card management server is configured to connect to a        network;    -   the gift card management server is configured to provide the        users with options to purchase user-selected gift cards; and    -   the gift card dispenser is configured to print the user-selected        gift cards upon receiving payment through the card reader.

This general system summary may be augmented by the various elementsdescribed herein to produce a wide variety of invention embodimentsconsistent with this overall design description.

Method Summary

The present invention method anticipates a wide variety of variations inthe basic theme of implementation, but can be generalized as a kioskgift card system purchase method wherein the method is performed on akiosk gift card system system comprising:

-   -   (a) kiosk processor interface;    -   (b) gift card management server;    -   (c) card reader; and    -   (d) gift card dispenser;    -   wherein    -   the kiosk processor interface is configured to enable users to        interact with the gift card management server;    -   the gift card management server is configured to connect to a        network;    -   the gift card management server is configured to provide the        users with options to purchase user-selected gift cards; and    -   the gift card dispenser is configured to print the user-selected        gift cards upon receiving payment through the card reader;    -   wherein the method comprises the steps of:    -   (1) clicking on the kiosk processor interface;    -   (2) browsing through a list of vendors;    -   (3) selecting a vendor to purchase a gift card from the vendor;    -   (4) requesting a monetary amount to apply to the gift card;    -   (5) paying the monetary amount;    -   (6) printing and dispensing the gift card; and    -   (7) collecting the gift card.

This general method summary may be augmented by the various elementsdescribed herein to produce a wide variety of invention embodimentsconsistent with this overall design description.

System/Method Variations

The present invention anticipates a wide variety of variations in thebasic theme of kiosk gift card system. The examples presented previouslydo not represent the entire scope of possible usages. They are meant tocite a few of the almost limitless possibilities.

This basic system and method may be augmented with a variety ofancillary embodiments, including but not limited to:

-   -   An embodiment wherein the gift card management server is further        configured to communicate via the network with:    -   (a) vendor management server;    -   (b) payment server;    -   (c) vendor database; and    -   (d) advertising server    -   wherein    -   the vendor management server is configured to communicate with        plural vendors to submit user requests for gift cards;    -   the plural vendors are configured to respond to the user        requests with the network;    -   the vendor database is configured to store and maintain data        related to the plural vendors;    -   the payment server is configured to accept payments for the gift        cards; and    -   the advertising server is configured to display advertisements        on the kiosk processor interface.    -   An embodiment wherein the kiosk processor interface is a touch        interface.    -   An embodiment wherein the kiosk processor interface is a        graphical interface.    -   An embodiment wherein the network is wired.    -   An embodiment wherein the network is wireless.

One skilled in the art will recognize that other embodiments arepossible based on combinations of elements taught within the aboveinvention description.

CONCLUSION

A kiosk gift card system and method for purchasing gift cards at a kioskhas been disclosed. The system/method includes a gift card distributionkiosk located at a retail establishment that provides a user with accessto a multitude of different forms of gift cards that may be purchasedand printed onto a customizable card with a personalized message. Thekiosk includes a kiosk processor interface, a gift card dispenser, acard reader, and gift card management server connected to a network. Thegift card management server, through the kiosk processor interface,provides vendor options to users to select and pay via the card reader.In another embodiment, the kiosk is used to redeem unused user giftcards for a reduced value user selected gift card, reduced cash value,full value store card, rewards points, bank debit, and/or electroniccode towards online user purchases.

Although a preferred embodiment of the present invention has beenillustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the foregoingDetailed Description, it will be understood that the invention is notlimited to the embodiments disclosed, but is capable of numerousrearrangements, modifications, and substitutions without departing fromthe spirit of the invention as set forth and defined by the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A first kiosk gift card manufacturing system communicating with a second kiosk gift card manufacturing system, said first kiosk gift card manufacturing system comprising: (a) mobile computing device (MCD); (b) vendor management server (VMS); (c) gift card management server (GMS); (d) kiosk processor interface (KPI); (e) near field communications reader (NFR); (f) kiosk card reader (KCR); (g) gift card dispenser (GCD); (h) gift card collector (GCC); (i) gift card printer (GCP); (j) gift card stacker (GCS); (k) cash dispensing apparatus (CDA); and (l) computer communications network (CCN); wherein: said first kiosk gift card manufacturing system is configured to communicate with said second kiosk gift card manufacturing system via said CCN; said KPI is configured to electronically communicate with said GMS through said CCN; said KPI is configured to enable users to interact with said GMS through said CCN; said GMS is configured to provide said users with options to purchase user-selected gift cards; said GMS is configured to provide said users with options to redeem value within or consolidate monetary value from within one or more pre-existing gift cards; said GCP is configured to print said user-selected gift cards upon receiving a payment from said user; said user-selected gift cards are associated with a gift card value; said GCS is configured to provide blank cards for said user-selected gift card printing to said GCP; said KPI is configured to permit said user-selected gift card printing to be customized by said user to include: information pertaining to the card size, personalized message, color, logo, value, and/or near field communication (NFC) chip; said GCD is configured to dispense said user-selected gift cards to said user after printing by said GCP; said KCR is configured to receive said payment via one or more user cards read by said KCR; said NFR is configured to receive said payment from said MCD read by said NFR; said KPI is configured to receive said payment from an eCode input entered on said KPI by said user; said MCD is configured to communicate via near field communications (NFC) with a gift card incorporating a NFC chip that identifies said gift card with a gift card ID (GID); said VMS is configured to receive gift card balance requests from said MCD incorporating said GID via said NFP and return a gift card balance (GCB) to said MCD; said MCD is configured to display said GCB; said user card may be either: credit card, debit card, or a pre-existing gift card; said KPI is configured to dispense cash from said CDA to said user upon receiving one or more gift cards from said user via said KCP; said KPI is configured to communicate an eCode to said user upon receiving one or more gift cards from said user via said KCR; said KPI is configured to communicate with said second kiosk gift card manufacturing system via said CCN to affect printing of said user-selected gift cards on said second kiosk gift card manufacturing system; and said GCC is configured to receive unused gift cards from said user that may be redeemed or exchanged for like kind gift cards or cash by said GMS.
 2. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 1 wherein said GMS is further configured to communicate to said KPI via said CCN using: (a) said VMS; (b) payment server; (c) vendor database; and (d) advertising server; wherein: said VMS is configured to communicate with a plurality of vendors to submit user requests for gift cards; said plurality of vendors are configured to respond to said user requests via said CCN; said vendor database is configured to store and maintain data related to said plurality of vendors; said payment server is configured to accept payments for said gift cards; and said advertising server is configured to display advertisements on said KPI.
 3. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 1 wherein said gift card value is associated with a discounted value of said pre-existing gift card.
 4. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 1 wherein said dispensed cash is associated with a discounted value of said pre-existing gift card.
 5. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 1 wherein said KPI is configured to redeem one or more of said pre-existing gift cards and consolidate them monetary value of said pre-existing gift cards in a bank account specified by said user.
 6. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 2 wherein said kiosk processor interface is a touch interface.
 7. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 1 wherein said kiosk processor interface is a graphical interface.
 8. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 1 wherein said CCN is wired.
 9. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 1 wherein said CCN is wireless.
 10. A first kiosk gift card manufacturing system communicating with a second kiosk gift card manufacturing system, said first kiosk gift card manufacturing system comprising: (a) mobile computing device (MCD); (b) vendor management server (VMS); (c) gift card management server (GMS); (d) kiosk processor interface (KPI); (e) near field communications reader (NFR); (f) kiosk card reader (KCR); (g) gift card dispenser (GCD); (h) gift card collector (GCC); (i) gift card printer (GCP); (j) gift card stacker (GCS); and (k) cash dispensing apparatus (CDA); (l) computer communications network (CCN); (m) gift card advertising server (GAS); and (n) live interface portal (LIP); wherein: said first kiosk gift card manufacturing system is configured to communicate with said second kiosk gift card manufacturing system via said CCN; said KPI is configured to electronically communicate with said GMS through said CCN; said KPI is configured to enable users to interact with said GMS through said CCN; said GMS is configured to provide said users with options to purchase user-selected gift cards; said GMS is configured to provide said users with options to redeem value within or consolidate monetary value from within one or more pre-existing gift cards; said GCP is configured to print said user-selected gift cards upon receiving a payment from said user; said user-selected gift cards are associated with a gift card value; said GCS is configured to provide blank cards for said user-selected gift card printing to said GCP; said KPI is configured to permit said user-selected gift card printing to be customized by said user to include: information pertaining to the card size, personalized message, color, logo, value, and/or near field communication (NFC) chip; said GCD is configured to dispense said user-selected gift cards to said user after printing by said GCP; said KCR is configured to receive said payment via one or more user cards read by said KCR; said NFR is configured to receive said payment from said MCD read by said NFR; said KPI is configured to receive said payment from an eCode input entered on said KPI by said user; said MCD is configured to communicate via near field communications (NFC) with a gift card incorporating a NFC chip that identifies said gift card with a gift card ID (GID); said VMS is configured to receive gift card balance requests from said MCD incorporating said GID via said NFR and return a gift card balance (GCB) to said MCD; said MCD is configured to display said GCB; said user card may be either: credit card, debit card, or a pre-existing gift card; said KPI is configured to dispense cash from said CDA to said user upon receiving one or more gift cards from said user via said KCR; said KPI is configured to communicate an eCode to said user upon receiving one or more gift cards from said user via said KCR; said KPI is configured to communicate with said second kiosk gift card manufacturing system via said CCN to affect printing of said user-selected gift cards on said second kiosk gift card manufacturing system; said GCC is configured to receive unused gift cards from said user that may be redeemed or exchanged for like kind gift cards or cash by said GMS; said GAS is configured to display advertisements on said KPI; said LIP comprises and audio device and a video device configured to enable said user to communicate in real time with a live customer support center via said GMS through said CCN; and said advertisements are targeted towards said users in real time based on a purchase history of said users.
 11. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 10, wherein said GMS is further configured to communicate to said KPI via said CCN using: (a) said VMS; (b) gift card payment server (GPS); and (c) gift card vendor database (GVD); wherein: said VMS is configured to communicate with a plurality of vendors to submit user requests for gift cards; said plurality of vendors are configured to respond to said user requests via said CCN; said GVD is configured to store and maintain data related to said plurality of vendors; and said GPS is configured to accept payments for said gift cards.
 12. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 10 wherein said gift card value is associated with a discounted value of said pre-existing gift card.
 13. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 10 wherein said dispensed cash is associated with a discounted value of said pre-existing gift card.
 14. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 10 wherein said KPI is configured to redeem one or more of said pre-existing gift cards and consolidate them monetary value of said pre-existing gift cards in a bank account specified by said user.
 15. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 10 wherein said kiosk processor interface is a touch interface.
 16. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 10 wherein said kiosk processor interface is a graphical interface.
 17. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 10 wherein said CCN is wired.
 18. The first kiosk gift card manufacturing system of claim 10 wherein said CCN is wireless. 